Author: Etsub Taye

Sunday brought a change of pace for our students. While the day had a mix of focused academic work and leisure, it was up to the students themselves to decide when to do what and for how long (just like college students). It was impressive to witness their time management skills. The students delegated a considerable amount of time to their close readings and video projects. Once they honed their writings they reviewed their close readings with staff members who were on stand to provide guidance and support.

After working hard on their close readings some took breaks by going out for a run while others opted for exploring Carlisle. Cailin, Maddie and Kylie ventured into town to explore Carlisle’s antique and thrifting stores. They were very happy with what they found. Later that night, after the students had dinner together, they had a movie night. I’m proud to say that there were no Sunday scaries. Instead the students were excited for the upcoming Lincoln v Douglass debate prep and the DC trip on Wednesday. 

We kicked the day off with an engaging discussion on the Underground Railroad featuring the esteemed historian Richard Blackett. In his work Professor Blackett explores the abolitionist movement with a focus on the role of African Americans. It was fascinating to witness two historians discussing and sometimes disagreeing on certain aspects of the UGRR. The discussion showcased the complexity of ongoing debates in the field. 

Students listening to Prof. Blackett and Prof. Pinsker

Later that afternoon students went on a short field trip to the Old Court house. It was a hit! Cooper gave a brief lecture on the Kaufman and McClintock trial of 1847. He specifically highlighted the power of abolitionist vigilance committees in Carlisle. He also helped the students redefine Underground Railroad stops as sites having to do with resistance to enslavement through escape. Thus positioning the courts as pivotal sites for the struggle against slavery. 

The admissions activity in Denny 112 provided valuable insights into the college application process. Students got a taste of what it’s like on the other side of an admissions desk by evaluating sample student applications. It was an eye-opening experience for many.

Cooper giving presentation outside of Carlisle Courthouse

Another highlight was undoubtedly our talent show (organized by Jordan Schucker), which took an unexpected turn when students broke out into a Hamilton karaoke. Here are some memorable moments:

• Cooper sang a rendition of “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” and “Country Roads” alongside Sarah Mash who played the ukulele 
• Kylie’s dance to “Birds of a Feather”
• Natalia and Avery’s performance of “Summer Nights” from Grease
• Counselors and students joining forces for a lively rendition of “Non-Stop” from Hamilton

The show had its share of surprises, including Cooper’s impromptu performance that didn’t quite go as planned. As one student candidly remarked, “Do it better!” But that’s the beauty of live performances–you never know what might happen! And special shoutouts to Jordan and Sarah for their stellar performances. Sarah’s impeccable impression of Lin-Manuel Miranda had me on the floor. Overall Thursday was unforgettable. 

On Monday the students woke up, grabbed breakfast and headed to their first lecture with Professor Pinsker and later Dr. Mealy. They investigated Phillis Wheatley’s  “On Being Brought From Africa (1773)” and analyzed Thomas Jefferson’s  “Declaration of Independence (1776).” Using the two historical texts the students then synthesized their understanding in a hashtag format.

Morning Lecture with Professor Pinsker

After lunch the students got a tour of Dickinson with an admissions tour guide. Questions ranged from “What’s the significance of the mermaid?” to “What study abroad programs does Dickinson offer?” to “What’s your class schedule like?” One student even remarked that Dickinson reminded her of home and how she would love to attend the college.

Students on the Admission Tour

During our tour, my group got to see a sneak peak of the planetarium in action. Professor Morgan, from the Physics and Astronomy department, tried to recruit them to the dark side and become scientists. Unfortunately for him we only have budding historians in our midst. Later that day students and staff gathered together to go to a local ice cream shop called Massey’s. Everyone had a great time and some were even deciding what flavors they’d get next week. Once we got back to our dorms the students read for tomorrow’s lecture and discussed what Tuesday’s debate was going to look like.

Exploring the local ice cream scene